Jeep Retires its Most Affordable Renegade, Paving the Way for EVs

Dec 08, 2023 10:06 PM EST

JEEP ON THE ROAD — (Photo : PEXELS/Rodolfo Quirós)

Jeep opted to stop making their entry-level model, the Renegade, which is a big change in their strategy toward making more higher priced vehicles. When this change goes into action in 2024, the entry level Jeep will cost around $30,000 and more. This is part of a larger trend in the auto industry to get rid of lower-priced vehicle options.

Production Dies

A spokesperson for the business confirmed that the Jeep Renegade will no longer be made after the 2023 model year, as reported by Automotive News. The markets in both the US and Canada will be affected by this move. The Renegade was taken off the market because sales had been going down for a long time, making it one of the slowest-selling new cars in the U.S.

As the car market continues to change, Jeep's decision to stop making the entry-level Renegade model fits with their growing focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and higher-end models.

According to Electrek, in 2015 Jeep introduced the Renegade to the U.S. market as its most affordable model, with a starting price of $29,445 . However, despite a promising start with over 106,000 units sold in 2016, the Renegade has gradually lost its appeal. Year after year, sales have dwindled, reaching just over 27,500 units in the past year.

This year, Jeep has faced a more significant decline, with only 12,561 Renegade models sold, marking a 35% decrease from 2022. It now holds the unenviable position of being the brand's poorest-selling vehicle, excluding the higher-profit Grand Wagoneer. In other places, like Mexico, Europe, and South America, where the Jeep Renegade is still an important part of their business, Jeep plans to keep selling them.

The decision to discontinue the most affordable Jeep Renegade in the U.S. market comes as Jeep prepares to enter the electric vehicle (EV) arena.

Even though Stellantis boasts a portfolio of over 15 automotive brands, it lacks any offerings in the U.S. that directly rival the highly popular Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V. As MotorBiscuit reported, while the Dodge Hornet falls within a similar size category, it has never been marketed as possessing off-road capabilities.

The decision seems to be caused by a bad understanding of how the market is currently functioning. It's also important to note that the Renegade is very popular in Europe.

About Jeep Renegade

The Jeep Renegade, once hailed as the brand's most affordable model in the U.S., is bidding farewell to the American market in 2023. This move marks the second discontinuation by Jeep this year, following the quiet cancellation of the Cherokee in February.

However, Jeep enthusiasts need not despair entirely, as the Renegade will continue to be available for purchase in several other regions, including Mexico, Europe, South America, and Asia. In Europe, the Renegade is joined by the Jeep Avenger, a newer subcompact SUV that is slightly more compact in size.

According to Edmunds.com, the 2023 Jeep Renegade, despite not matching the legendary off-road capabilities of its well-known sibling, the Wrangler, still holds its own in the subcompact SUV category. Particularly noteworthy is the Trailhawk trim, equipped with a raised suspension and all-terrain tires, making it adept at conquering rough terrains, including ruts and rocky paths.